Abstract [en]

In the present study, the microstructural response of some commercial cemented carbide grades during scratchinghas been analyzed and evaluated by a number of post-test characterization techniques. The influence of Co binder phase content and WC grain size on the deformation and degradation on a WC grain size scale and on a composite scaleare evaluated. The results clearly illustrate the complexity of deformation, degradation and wear of cemented carbide and the dynamics of the diamond stylus / cemented carbide contact during the scratching event. For all cementedcarbide grades the microstructure has a strong impact on the observed degradation mechanisms and the resistance to deformation and degradation was found to increase with decreasing Co content and decreasing WC grain size.